If you are planning to study in the United States, the US F1 visa​ is your ticket to enrolling in an American school, college, or university. This guide covers everything you need to know about F1 student visas, from eligibility to the interview process.
What is the F-1 Visa?
The US F1 visa lets international students live and study in the US at an accredited school, college, seminary, or conservatory. Unlike other visas, the US F1 visa is strictly for education—not work or immigration.
The visa costs $185 for the application fee plus a $350 SEVIS fee. It stays valid for the length of your study program and allows a grace period of 60 days after graduation. If you want to stay longer, you must apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or another visa.
Here are some key rules about US F1 visa applications:
- You must study at a SEVP-approved school (certified by the Department of Homeland Security).
- Vocational students cannot apply for a US F1 visa; they need an M-1 visa instead.
- You can work, but only under specific restrictions.
- Your spouse and children can join you on F-2 visas, but they cannot work (your children can attend school).
Now, let’s go over the eligibility criteria of this US visa.
F1 Visa Eligibility
To qualify for this visa, you must meet these US F1 visa requirements:
Requirements for Educational Institutions
- The school must be SEVP-approved.
- Only accredited universities, high schools, seminaries, private elementary schools, conservatories, and language programs can accept F-1 students.
- The institution must provide Form I-20 to confirm the student’s enrollment.
Requirements for Students
- You must be accepted into a SEVP-approved school.
- You must enroll as a full-time student and maintain that status.
- You need to speak, read, and understand English or take English proficiency courses.
- You must prove you have enough money to pay for tuition and living expenses.
- You must show strong ties to your home country to prove you plan to return after your studies.
- You must apply from outside the US—you cannot switch to a US F1 visa while already in the country.
The F-1 Visa Process
To get a US F1 visa, you must first be accepted into a SEVP-approved school. Once accepted, your school will register you in SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System). SEVIS helps track international students and ensures they follow US immigration rules.
Before applying for your visa, you must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. This fee is $350 for most students and funds the SEVP program. After payment, your school will send you Form I-20, which proves your acceptance. Keep this form safe—you’ll need it for your visa interview and when traveling to the US.
Next, you must complete Form DS-160, the online visa application. It asks for personal, educational, and travel details. The form takes time, so be patient and double-check your answers. Once finished, you must pay a non-refundable visa application fee of $185. Some students may need to pay an additional issuance fee, depending on their nationality.
After the US F1 visa fee payment, you need to schedule your US visa interview at an embassy or consulate. It’s best to apply in your home country, but you can choose another location if needed. Just keep in mind that applying outside your country may make approval harder.
During the US F1 visa interview, a visa officer will ask you questions about your studies, finances, and plans. Answer honestly and confidently. If everything checks out, your visa will be approved, and you’ll be ready to start your journey in the US.
The US F1 visa processing time depends on the location and time of year. You can check wait times on the US Department of State website. Also, a recent rule change now allows new US F1 student visas to be issued up to 365 days before your course starts instead of the previous 120-day limit. This gives you more time to plan your move.
F-1 Visa Interview
Most applicants must attend an in-person visa interview at a US embassy or consulate and answer the US F1 visa interview questions. Let’s look at the process:
Documents to Bring
- Valid passport (must be valid for at least six months beyond your US entry date).
- DS-160 confirmation page (proof that you submitted your visa application).
- Visa application fee receipt ($185 payment confirmation).
- Recent passport-style photo (must meet US visa photo guidelines).
- Form I-20 (issued by your school).
Additional Documents
- Academic records (transcripts, diplomas, degrees, or certificates).
- Test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, GRE, GMAT, etc.).
- Financial proof (bank statements, sponsorship letters, or scholarship proof).
- Evidence of ties to your home country (family, job offers, or property ownership).
During the Interview
A consular officer will ask about your education, finances, and plans after graduation. They want to ensure you:
- Are a genuine student.
- Can afford your studies.
- Plan to return home after your program.
They may also take your fingerprints and inform you if additional processing is needed. If approved, you will receive your visa. If denied, the officer will explain why.
What to Do if the US F1 Visa for the USA Is Refused
A visa denial is frustrating, but not the end. The embassy will tell you why you were refused. Fix the issue and try again. Common reasons include missing documents, weak financial proof, or doubts about your return home. Gather stronger evidence, reapply, and explain what has changed. You can reapply anytime, but make sure to correct the problem first. If unsure, talk to a visa expert. A denial isn’t final—stay positive and try again!
Maintaining Valid US F1 Visa Status After You Arrive
- You must attend all your classes and maintain good academic standing.
- You need to stay a full-time student throughout your program.
- Your I-20 form must remain valid, so renew it before it expires if necessary.
- You can only work under approved conditions, such as on-campus jobs or OPT/CPT programs.
- If you move, you must update your address with your school and SEVIS within 10 days.
- Before traveling outside the US, you need a travel signature on your I-20 and must check visa renewal rules.
Note: Violating visa rules (working illegally or failing classes) can lead to deportation.
Final Thoughts
The US F1 visa is your gateway to studying in the US. The process may seem overwhelming, but with the right preparation, you can succeed. Remember to start early! School applications take time.
If you need more guidance about US F1 visas, you can get a FREE consultation today with the Visa Library! Our team will help you navigate the process and ensure a hassle-free experience.
FAQs
You can stay for the length of your study program, plus a 60-day grace period after graduation.
The US F1 visa stays valid as long as your I-20 is active. If your program lasts four years, your visa is valid for that time.
The visa application fee is $185. You also need to pay the SEVIS fee, which is $350.
Yes, but only under specific conditions. You can work on-campus or apply for OPT (Optional Practical Training) or CPT (Curricular Practical Training).
Yes, your spouse and children can apply for F-2 visas. However, they cannot work in the US.
You can transfer to another SEVP-approved school. You must inform your current school and update your SEVIS record.
Yes, but only with OPT, another visa, or a change of status. The F-1 visa does not grant permanent residency.
